The Donbas Conflict in Ukraine: Elites, Protest, and Partition

This book explores why fighting erupted in the Donetsk region in eastern Ukraine in 2014, unlike Kharkiv city, despite their proximity to Russia and similar ethnic and linguistic makeup. It argues that local elites' behavior and ties to the center were key factors, with those in Kharkiv having more diffuse connections and being better able to adapt to regime change, while elites in Donetsk had more concentrated ties and were less capable of coping with change. The book emphasizes the importance of patronal politics, patronage networks, and informal center-region relations in Ukraine's conflict.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intriguing phenomenon of why the conflict in Eastern Ukraine erupted in the Donetsk region, while it remained relatively calm in Kharkiv city, despite both cities being geographically close to Russia and sharing similar ethnic and linguistic backgrounds. Through extensive original research, the book makes a compelling argument that a key factor in this distinction was the nature and behavior of local elites. In Kharkiv, the elites had diffuse connections to the center, allowing them to adapt more easily to sudden and profound regime changes at the national level. Conversely, the elites in the Donetsk region had much more concentrated ties to the center, were dependent on a single network, and thus found it much more challenging to cope with change.

The book goes on to demonstrate how crucial patronal politics, patronage networks, and informal center-region relations are for Ukraine. It shows that rather than being solely driven by Russian influence, the conflict was primarily a result of local political circumstances. By exploring these dynamics, the book offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics of post-Soviet politics and the challenges facing countries in transition.

This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the ongoing conflict in Eastern Ukraine and its broader implications for regional security and stability. It provides a deep and nuanced analysis of the factors that contributed to the conflict and offers practical solutions for promoting peace and stability in the region.

Weight: 530g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032101200